Jeff Fisher: Shaun Hill, not Austin Davis, still the starter
By Wes Goldberg
After completing 22-of-29 passes for 235 yards in a 19-17 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Austin Davis received the game ball from St. Louis Rams head coach Jeff Fisher. It was his first NFL start, playing in place of Shaun Hill (thigh) and Sam Bradford (out for the season).
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It was also the Rams’ first win of the season after an embarrassing opening week loss to the Minnesota Vikings. Hill started the first game, going 8-of-13 passing for 81 yards, no touchdowns and an interception before leaving the game with a thigh injury. Since then, Davis has completed 38 of 52 passes for 427 yards, no touchdowns and an interception.
However, it may not be enough for him to win the starting job. According to Nick Wagoner of ESPN.com, Fisher is not yet ready to hand the reigns to Davis.
"Fisher pointed to Davis’ poise as a primary reason for Davis’ initial success, a trait apparent as he converted a pair of third downs on the game-winning drive with clutch throws.Davis’ performance was enough to have many wondering whether he’d done enough to earn another start regardless of the status of veteran Shaun Hill’s injured thigh. Fisher quickly put those thoughts to rest after the game.“No, when Shaun comes back, he’s our starter,” Fisher said. “I’m really proud of Austin but Shaun’s our starter.”"
I’m not one to draw conclusions after just two games, but the idea that Fisher is handing the job to Hill is a little irresponsible. Maybe Davis continues to play well and Fisher opens up a competition, but there will come a point where Fisher needs to make a real decision and not just a cop out one by going with the incumbent starter. It’s something to watch–if you plan on watching any Rams games, that is.